How to Read a Horse

Horses are majestic, intelligent animals that have long worked side-by-side with man. Though the average horse is large enough and strong enough to trample and even kill a person if it wanted to, the fact that most horses are willing to be obediently led by their smaller, weaker companions should tell us something about their nature. To learn about specific indicators as to what your horse may be feeling or trying to communicate, read on.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. If you see a horse put his ears flat on his head, you should move out of the way. The horse is angry and likely to bolt, bite or plunge.

2. If your horse moves one ear forward and one ear back, he is curious about what you are doing. Reassure him, and speak to him in a calming, happy manner, or show him what you are up to.

3. If a horse wants to get your attention, he may stomp and whiny or shake his head. Speak to him, stroke his neck, or scratch him between the ears.

4. A horse is alert and ready to move when you see both ears pointing forward. He may be reacting to an outside agent, or he may be deciding to run back to the stall, but you should try to get his attention focused on you if you are riding him.

5. A horse that puts his tail between his legs is frightened. You should speak to your horse in soothing tones so that he won’t buck or rear.

6. If your horse swishes his tail back and forth, he is probably irritated and should be given space or distracted in some way.

7. A horse that wrinkles its nose may be annoyed or disgusted with something. Remove the offending object or food to get your horse relaxed again.

8. If a horse tightens his upper lip and wrinkles his nose, he may be ready to bite, and you should move away immediately.

Tips & Warnings

• Never stand directly behind or directly in front of a horse! Because of the position of its eyes, a horse cannot see what is right in front or right behind it. It is likely to bolt, buck or kick out at what it can feel but not see. If you have to walk behind a horse, be sure to approach from the side, and put your hand on its flank so that it knows that you will be passing behind.

Resources

• More Tips on Understanding Your Horse